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Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Dijon mustard, dried basil, and Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and steamed broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and stir everything together until evenly coated.
- Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the pasta bake, and if you like a crispy finish, top with breadcrumbs. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Dish out generous portions of this creamy, comforting pasta bake, and enjoy the flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
- A simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra nutrition.
Why This Recipe is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake has all the hallmarks of a dish that makes you want to eat it forever. The creamy sauce is decadent without being heavy, and the chicken adds a savory, protein-packed element that makes this dish feel like a full meal. The broccoli gives it a pop of color and a subtle earthiness that complements the richness of the cheese and cream. Add in the crunchy breadcrumbs on top, and you’ve got a perfect balance of textures that will keep you reaching for seconds.
Plus, this recipe is easy to customize. Want to make it spicy? Add some red pepper flakes. Looking for a different protein? Try swapping the chicken for ground turkey or shredded beef. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Savoring
At the end of the day, comfort food is all about the feelings it evokes—the warmth, the satisfaction, the “I could eat this forever” feeling. This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta bake embodies all of that and more. It’s a dish that’s simple enough to make any day of the week, yet delicious enough to feel like a special occasion.
So go ahead—gather the ingredients, prepare your favorite side, and get ready for a meal that will make you say, “Man, I could eat this forever!”
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